There comes a time when big things cross our paths, life changing things. That happened here at Variety Beat the moment we met Kelleigh Bannen back in 2012, who has since become not only our favorite artist, but favorite person. Bannen was instantly able to connect with fans, and to this day, stays after shows to take pictures, sign autographs and most importantly, connect with others. It’s that desire to connect and stay connected that sets her apart from others.

Bannen has made it her craft to connect with her audience and view them not just as fans, but as those she can learn from and experience real life with. She’s come to realize that you can’t be authentic if you’re hiding parts of your life and bares all on her podcast This Nashville Lifeand her new single “Church Clothes.”

Bannen recently spent some time in Austin, TX for SXSW (SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries). We have an exclusive look at Bannen’s week at SXSW and have included photos she’s shared on social media that provide even more pizazz to what looked like an incredible time!

EXCLUSIVE: WATCH KELLEIGH BANNEN’S WHIRLWIND WEEK AT SXSW

Fringe matters.

Bannen told Variety Beat about her week at SXSW, saying:

“I had a blast in Texas for my first official SXSW. The shows were high energy; the fans were genuinely there to discover new music. Austin was weird, wonderful, and hopelessly without national rideshare options. It was a crazy couple of days and I loved it.”

Bannen’s single “Church Clothes” was best described by Grady Smith, who reacts to Music Video’s in real-time. He asked what the purpose of the song was since it wasn’t a breakup song or an “I love you” song and said the purpose of “Church Clothes” is for the audience; a confession from the artist and for the good of the people listening. He said it’s a real song and Country Music can always use more real (can we get an amen?)